Two problems related to brake light switch have been reported for the 2004 Toyota Prius. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2004 Toyota Prius based on all problems reported for the 2004 Prius.
About 40% of the time, my Toyota Prius doesn't want to stop or slow down when the brakes are applied. Under these conditions, I have to apply the brakes hard and then the car will slow down. It feels like the car wants to "run away" when the brakes are applied. It exhibits this behavior in many circumstances: stopping at a stop light, slowing down on an expressway, or slowing down on a city street. Updated 11/23/09 the check engine light illuminated. The passenger front window switch wasn't opening or closing the window unless the master switch was used. The throttle body had to be cleaned. The fan belt and brake light switch were replaced. Updated 11/24/09 updated 01/06/10 updated 01/07/10.
With light braking I can stop my 2004 Prius without ever illuminating the brake lights. This risks a rear end collision. The lights illuminate after the brake pedal has been depressed a little more than 1/2 inch. The service manager at my dealership claimed that there was no adjustment and would not take the car into the shop. An incident date, as required on this form, is not applicable. This is happening every time I brake.